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Measuring spring compression
A student investigated a spring with a different spring constant.
When masses are placed on the spring it compresses.
The student measured the compression of the spring for different masses.
Figure 3 shows some of the equipment used.
Describe how the compression of the spring could be determined.
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Marking points
- 1 Obtains the necessary measurements: original and compressed lengths, or the force/weight on the spring.
- 2 Calculates compression by subtracting the lengths, or uses e = F/k.
Full-mark answer
Use a metre rule to measure the spring's original length and then its compressed length with a mass added. Calculate the compression as original length minus compressed length.
Why this answer loses marks
Measure the compressed spring with a ruler.
Compression is the change in length, so both the original and compressed lengths are needed before subtracting.